If you are in the market for a cost-effective espresso machine than this article is for you! It’s more than likely that during one’s search for an espresso maker they often find machines that cost upwards of $1000. You can indeed find good espresso machines for less than $500.
We’ve done the hard work for you and listed our 6 picks for the best espresso machine under $500, which you can read more about below.
Best Espresso Machine Under $500: Our top 6 choices
1. Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine
This espresso machine is among the top rated espresso machines under $500. If you are an avid espresso drinker, this machine is for you. The machine, which has a list of notable features with the ability to entrance any user, is built to compliment just about any kitchen.
Instead of starting with bursts of high pressure, this machine starts by applying steady, low pressure so as to expand the grinds gently. This helps in filling in any irregularities or cracks that are present in the coffee puck before the application of full pressure.
By applying even pressure to all the parts of the coffee puck, an optimal flavour is extracted. This is how the machine manages to make that excellent espresso with a well-balanced flavour. For a well-balanced flavour to be achieved, the flavour has to be drawn evenly from all the coffee grinds.
For optimal espresso extraction, there is an auto purge which automatically adjusts the temperature of the water after steaming.
Also, for even extraction, the pre-infusion function applies a low water pressure at the beginning of the extraction so that the grinds are gently expanded for the even extraction.
The 1600w thermo coil heating system that features an integrated stainless steel water coil accurately controls the temperature of the water. This espresso machine comes with the following accessories:
- Single and dual wall filter baskets
- Stainless steel jug
- Easy cleaning accessories (cleaning disc and tablets)
- Coffee scoop
- Water filter with holder
There is a Black Plastic’ insert inside the portafilter bowl whose purpose is to reduce the heat loss that is usually experienced when the espresso hits the cold metal.
We’ve reviewed a cousin of this machine, the Breville BES870, which you can read more about here.
Key features of this espresso machine
- PID temperature control which delivers water with the right temperature which is adjustable in increments of 2 degree Celsius.
- A pre-infusion feature which applies low water pressure at the beginning of the process of brewing. By doing this, this feature helps in ensuring that the best flavours are extracted from the coffee beans to make a great cup of coffee
- Auto-purge which automatically fixes the water temperature after the completion of the steaming process
- 54mm portafilter
- Pressure gauges that let you monitor the espresso’s pressure
- A 1600w thermo coil heating system for controlling and monitoring the temperature s that the temperature range stays between 195 and 200 degrees
- A cup warmer located at the top of the machine as well as a feature which gets rid of excess water from the filter basket after the process of coffee extraction
- An extra tall cup clearance that is used to brew coffee which goes directly into a travel mug
- Sleep mode. The machine goes to sleep after an hour and automatically shuts down after three hours
- An “Empty Me!” indicator which notifies you once the removable drip tray is full
- A “Clean Me!” cleaning alert which notifies you when it’s time to clean
Pros
- Makes consistently great espresso
- Well-built and reliable
- Takes less space
- Impressive design
- Comes with everything except the grinder, coffee and a cup
- Good quality
Cons
- Bulky
- Cumbersome and has a learning curve
- The water reservoir has to be frequently refilled
- Noisy
2. Gaggia 14101 Classic Espresso Maker
The Gaggia 14101 might look meek and compact but don’t let that fool you into believing that you can’t get a great cup of coffee from this machine. The primary focus of this machine is to produce excellent espresso.
Furthermore, its compact size of 14.2 x 8 x 9.5 is an ideral size for any kitchen.
Designed in Italy by Gaggia, one of the most trusted brands in the espresso industry, the Gaggia 14101 is a semi-automatic single boiler espresso machine.
Since it is a single boiler, you cannot use the steam wand and extract espresso at the same time. You have to flip the button so that you change between the functions. Nevertheless, the brewing process can be hastened by the aluminium boiler which conducts heat very effectively, resulting in swift and powerful pressure necessary for extracting a good shot.
It features a commercial grade 58mm group head, the same size found in commercial machines at your local coffee shop, as well as a 72 oz. water reservoir. Its shell is made of stainless steel with plastic handles, knobs, and buttons.
Combining classic design and advanced technology, this espresso machine has all the benefits that a commercial coffee machine has. One of the convenient features of this machine is that it is designed to make two cups at once. This is a huge plus considering it is so compact!
Also, it has a hot-water dispenser that you can use when you want to have a cup of tea instead of coffee, a cup warmer and a frothing wand for the creation of the perfect crema.
For easy filling and cleaning, the water reservoir which has a 72-ounce capacity can be removed. Nevertheless, keeping this machine is not difficult; you wipe it down using a damp cloth. The Gaggia Classic can put you on your way to becoming a home barista.
Check out our detailed review here.
Key features
- Rugged construction using heavy duty materials for durability
- Forged brass components which stabilizes the temperature
- Two filter baskets
- Coffee tamper and a 7g measuring spoon(use two scoops per cup for best results)
- High voltage boiler for the quick warm-ups
- An independent expansion valve
- Frothing for milk beverages
- A wand that doubles as a hot water dispenser for tea and americanos
- A one-year warranty that is directly handled by Gaggia
Pros
- Easy to use
- Makes great espresso
- One-year warranty
- Easy to set up
- Easy to clean
- Perfect for beginners
- Very convenient
- An adjustable bar pressure
- A large water reservoir
Cons
- Can only fit short cups because it sits very low
- The steam wand is inconvenient
- Slow heating
- Noisy
3. Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker
Also known as Breville Cafe Roma Espresso Maker, the ESP8XL lets you make your favourite espresso from the comfort of your home.
If a great espresso makes is what you are looking for but you cannot afford higher end espresso makers, the Breville Cafe Roma Espresso maker is all you need.
With this machine, you will be making great espresso just like a professional barista. You’ll just need a little bit of practice to dial in your shots!
The excellent tasting espresso beverages made by this machine will most likely impress any of your guests. Once your guests taste the espresso that you will make them using this machine, they will most likely say goodbye to the long lines that they make almost on a daily basis at the local cafes.
In fact, the long lines might migrate to your kitchen as your friends are likely to frequently visit you so that they can have the great espresso again.
This machine made by Breville features a Thermoblock heating system which extracts espresso at the perfect temperature. Also, it applies a full 15 bars pressure that maximises the crema for a barista-style aroma and taste that is so rich.
In fact, you will be amazed by the superb crema that this machine can consistenly produce. The even, forceful pressure helps extract the thick crema.
The steaming wand lets you steam and froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes. You can prepare the milk using the included steaming jug. Steaming jugs give the best results because they are designed to help you steam and pour more efficiently.
The following are some of the accessories that come with this machine:
- Frothing pitcher
- Cup warming plate
- Special measuring spoon
- Its cleaning tool
- Removable grid and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Removable 40.6-ounce water tank
Key features of this espresso machine
- Included frothing jug
- One-year warranty
- 40.6 oz. the water tank that is removable
- Effortless foaming and frothing
- Measures 12 x 12 x 15 inches
Pros
- Great tasting espresso all the time
- Easily fits most kitchens counters
- Great quality for a low price
- Makes lattes and cappuccinos too
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Uses coffee capsules or grounds
- Looks great
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- A little noisy
- Some complaints the beverages are not hot enough
- Slightly confusing instructions